Surgical device with light

ABSTRACT

An electrocautery unit for connecting to a handle of an electrocautery device, the unit comprises a body, a light unit and an electrode. The body has a body proximal end and a body distal end, and a body axis extending lengthwise along the center of the body. The body’s proximal end comprises a connecting element for connecting said body to a handle having a handle axis extending lengthwise along the center of the handle, so that said body axis is coaxial with said handle axis when said body is connected to said handle. The light unit may be constructed and arranged to emit a light having a central axis coaxial with said body axis. The electrode comprises a proximate end connected to the body distal end, and an electrode tip at a distal said. When the electrode is connected to the body, the electrode lays outside of the body axis and extends into said body axis such that the electrode tip is within said body axis, wherein said light and said electrode tip are coaxial to said body axis and said handle axis.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

The application is a continuation of U.S. Application No. 16/931,344,which claims the benefit of U.S. Application No. 14/738,878, now U.S.Pat. No. 10,716,587, which claims the benefit of U.S. ProvisionalApplication No. 62/012,216, filed on Jun. 13, 2014, all of which areincorporated by reference herein in their entirety.

FIELD OF INVENTION

The present invention is related generally to a medical apparatus and anelectrocautery system and particularly to electrocautery tools having alighting component to provide light during deep surgical procedures.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Proper lighting is a critical component of any operating room. Surgeonsneed ample lighting to illuminate the area on which the procedure istaking place. Modern surgery has evolved continuously to smaller openingincisions and more complex operating sites, all with the objective ofleaving smaller scars and creating less discomfort for the patient. Forexample, in cosmetic surgery, among others, there is a need to performbetter and more precise dissection between tissue layers deep in thesite and a rising demand for better surgical tools to facilitate thesurgeon’s work and improve teaching skills. Electrocautery devices areoften utilized to cauterize wounds, stop bleeding, or excise tissue.

To provide the needed illumination for increasingly complex surgeries,lighting in operating rooms has evolved from bulky overhead, adjustablelighting that can be shifted to point the light beam from differentangles to headlamps worn on the heads of the surgeons or surroundingstaff, to having a small lighting unit built into electrocautery thatsurgeons use to operate on patients.

Both overhead lighting and headlamp approach provide sufficient ambientlighting during surgery, but often fail at specifically illuminating thetargeted deep field site. The adjustability of the overhead lighting islimited by its fixed position on the ceiling and its ability to beextended downward from the ceiling without hindering the surgeon’svision or movement. The headlamp approach allows the light to move withthe surgeon, but requires the surgeon to tilt his head or adjust andmaintain his body position to point the lamp at the targeted area. Evenwith these extra movements, which increase the possibility of error, thebulk of the light from headlamps are blocked and/or reflected by theskin around the small incision and fails to penetrate the skin andilluminate the inside of the incision where the surgical procedure istaking place.

Whereas certain electrocautery devices exist with built-in lightingcomponents that attempt to carry the light pass the skin around theincision opening, they each have drawbacks that are addressed by theinvention described herein. Since the internal construction of the humanbody is extremely complex, in order for a surgeon to properly and safelyperform a more precise dissection between deep-site tissue layers, amore concentrated and pinpointed lighting is critical to aid the surgeonin cutting, dissection and cauterization. A lack of sufficient light atthe treatment site within the patient’s body may cause the doctor toaccidentally injure other parts of the patient’s body. Sinceelectrocautery generally requires controlled application ofradiofrequency energy to an operative tissue site, it is important thatthe site be properly illuminated for the surgeon to operate.

Better lighting inside the incision is also preferred for teachingpurposes, both to point out the targeted area and also to illuminate thearea when utilizing a camera or other audio-visual device to facilitatedemonstrating the procedure to students.

Accordingly, it is desirable to provide an improved electrocauteryapparatus and system to provide light that overcomes drawbacks andinadequacies of known methods and systems.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTIONS

Generally speaking, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention,an electrocautery unit comprises a body, a light unit and an electrode.The proximal end of the body may be connected to a handle. The distalend of the body may be connected to the electrode. The body and thehandle are generally coaxial lengthwise along the center of the body andthe center of the handle. The light unit emits light that is alsocoaxial to the center of the body and the center of the handle. However,the electrode is constructed and arranged to lie outside of the co-axisof the body and the handle and extends into the co-axis only at itsdistal end where the electrode tip is located. Specifically, theelectrode tip is coaxial to the center of the body and the center of thehandle, as well as the light mitted.

An embodiment of the invention provides an electrocautery kit comprisingan elongated body having multiple connecting elements and an electrode.The body has a first connecting element constructed and arranged toconnect to a handle of an electrocautery device, a second connectingelement to connect to the electrode in the kit. The body furthercomprises a light element constructed and arranged to emit a light thatis coaxial to the body’s central axis lengthwise. When the electrode isconnected to the body, the electrode’s central axis is not coaxial withthe body’s central axis. However the electrode is constructed andarranged to have an electrode tip that extends toward the central axisof the body.

Another embodiment of the invention is directed to a pair of forcepshaving a light unit and a camera unit.

Yet another embodiment of the invention is directed to an electrocauteryunit having a camera.

Still other objects and advantages of the invention will in part beobvious and will in part be apparent from the specification. Otherfeatures and advantages of this invention will become apparent in thefollowing detailed description of exemplary embodiments of thisinvention with reference to the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

For a fuller understanding of the invention, reference is made to thefollowing description taken in connection with the accompanying drawing,in which:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an electrocautery device in accordancewith an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 2 is a side view of an electrocautery device in accordance with anembodiment of the invention;

FIG. 3 is a side view of an electrocautery device in accordance with anembodiment of the invention;

FIG. 4 is a side view of an electrode unit in accordance with anembodiment of the invention;

FIG. 5 is cross sectional view of the electrode unit of FIG. 4 detachedfrom an embodiment of a handle;

FIG. 6A is a side view of an electrode unit illustrating the centralaxis projected from a light element coaxial with the tip of theelectrode in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 6B is a side view of an electrode unit illustrating the centralaxis projected from a light element coaxial with the tip of theelectrode in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 6C is the cross sectional view of the embodiment of FIG. 6B takenalong plane A;

FIG. 6D is the front view of the embodiment of FIG. 6B;

FIG. 7 is a diagram showing the field of illumination of a lightingelement with a lens in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 8A is a side view of a light element in accordance with anembodiment of the invention, showing the angle of illumination of thelight element without a lens;

FIG. 8B is a side view of the light element of 8A with a lens, showingthe angle of illumination of the light;

FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an electrocautery device in accordancewith an embodiment of the invention held by a user’s hand and beinginserted into the opening of an incision during a surgical procedure;

FIG. 10 is a side view of an electrocautery device in accordance with anembodiment of the invention having a securing element;

FIG. 11 is a side view of an electrocautery device in accordance with anembodiment of the invention having an independent power source for thelight element;

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of an electrocautery device in accordancewith an embodiment of the invention having connections to external powersources;

FIG. 13 is a side view of an electrocautery device in accordance with anembodiment of the invention having a camera;

FIG. 14 is front view of the electrocautery device of FIG. 13 ;

FIG. 15 is a side of an electrode in accordance with an embodiment ofthe invention having a camera;

FIG. 16A is a perspective view of a removable electrode having a camerawith an handle in accordance with an embodiment of the;

FIG. 16B is a perspective of the embodiment of FIG. 16A having a shaft;

FIG. 17 is a diagram showing various electrode tips in accordance withan embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 18 is showing the electrode tips of FIG. 17 detached from anembodiment of a handle;

FIG. 19A is a perspective view of a pair of forceps having a lightelement in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 19B is showing the forceps of FIG. 19A having a camera;

FIG. 20A is a side view of a pair of forceps retrofitted with a lightingelement in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 20B is a front view of a lighting element for retrofitting inaccordance with an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 20C is a front view of a light element for retrofitting inaccordance with an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 20D is a side view of the lighting element of FIG. 20C;

FIG. 21A is a side view of an electrocautery device with a suctionelement in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 21B is a side view of the electrocautery device of FIG. 21A showingwith a battery proximate the light unit;

FIG. 21C is a front view of the electrocautery device of FIG. 21A;

FIG. 22A is a side view of an electrocautery device having multiplelight elements and a built it power source as in accordance with anembodiment of the invention;

FIG. 22B is a side view of an electrocautery device having multiplelight elements and an external power source as in accordance with anembodiment of the invention; and

FIG. 22C is front view of electrocautery device of FIG. 22A.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Certain exemplary embodiments of the present invention will now bedescribed with reference to the drawings. Reference is made to FIGS.1-16B, in which certain embodiments of the invention are shown.Generally, an electrocautery device 10 includes a handle 100 and a bladeunit 200, 300, 400, 500 having a coupling element 210, 310, 410, 510 forremovably connecting to handle 100, such that the same handle 100 may beused with a variety of blade units 200, 300, 400, 500. More preferably,handle 100 is a standard electrocautery handle, such that blade unit200, 300, 400, 500 retrofits electrocautery handles currently available.

In the embodiments illustrated, coupling element 210, 310, 410, 510includes a male connector constructed and arranged to be inserted intohandle 100. However, it is to be understood that the coupling elementmay include a female receiving portion for receiving a male connector ofthe handle, or other coupling mechanisms, such as a threated mechanism,a friction fit mechanism, male-female flange and groove, etc. arecontemplated without deviating from the scope of the invention.Moreover, although the illustrated embodiment of coupling element 210,310, 410, 510 has a round, rod-like shape, it may be square or take onany other shape or size suitable for connecting with handle 100.

Blade Unit

Blade unit 200, 300, 400, 500 preferably includes a surgical electrode220, 320, 420, 520, a lighting element 230, 330, 430, 530 and a shaftextending between lighting element 230, 330, 430, 530 and couplingelement 210, 310, 410, 510. Generally speaking, the surgical electrode220, 320, 420, 520 includes an electrode tip 222, 322, 422, 522 andcomprises a material that conducts electricity, such as metal, via whicha current is transferred to the tissue of the patient, for example, forelectrocauterization. The surgical electrode 220, 320, 420, 520 may havevarious shapes and sizes according to the desired surgical procedure.For example, surgical electrode 220, 320, 420, 520 may be a blade forcutting, and the specific size and shape of the blade may differdepending on the location of the surgery and the type of tissue to becut. Whereas the embodiments illustrated include a bayonet-shapedelectrode 220, 320, 420, 520, the electrode may be curved, angular orany other shape, preferably with the electrode tip curving toward axis202, 302, 402, 502 such that the electrode tip is located along saidaxis. The surgical electrode may alternatively be a uterus wall cutter296 or other cutter 294, or probe 292, 298 as shown in FIGS. 17-18 . Asshown, the device may comprise a variety of components not limited to ablade or cutter, such as a probe 292, 298. Cutter 294, 296 or probe 292,298 is preferably structured and arranged such that the tip of cutter294, 296 or probe 292, 298 is positioned coaxial with the light emittedby the lighting element, and more preferably, coaxial with the handle towhich the device is connected. A first probe 292 may comprise a roundedtip, whereas a second probe 298 may include an opening designed to cutor destroy tissue.

In accordance with an embodiment of the invention shown in FIG. 18 , theblade unit 150 includes a lighting element 160 that is fixed to base 152of blade unit 150, and a removable electrode 170, which preferablycomprise a variety of cutters 294, 296 or probes 292, 298. Preferably,removable electrode 170 includes a coupling element 172 for engaging acorresponding coupling element 154 of base 152. Thus, the same base 152may be used for a variety of procedures, simply by attaching the desiredelectrode, blade, tip, etc.

Whereas the examples of cutters are described herein are directed towardelectrodes using heat, it is to be understood that a blade or othermeans for cutting without heat may be provided without deviating fromthe scope of the invention.

Lighting element 230, 330, 430, 530, preferably includes a light source232, by way of non-limiting example, one or more light-emitting diodes(LED). The example illustrated in FIGS. 7 and 8A-8B shows light source232 comprising an LED. Lighting element 230, 330, 430, 530 is preferablyconfigured to provide an angle of illumination 237 having an angle ofbetween approximately 10 and 40 degrees, more preferably approximately20 and 30 degrees. Light source 232 may provide the desired angle ofillumination 237 or lighting element 230, 330, 430, 530 may include alens 234, 334, 434, 534, preferably a convex lens, to reduce theoriginal angle of illumination 236 of light source 232 to the desiredangle of illumination 237, as illustrated in FIGS. 8A and 8B. In theexample shown, light source 232 is an LED having an original angle ofdispersion 236 of 120 degrees, which convex lens 234 reduces to 30degrees by refracting the light passing through it.

A narrower angle of illumination should reduce the size of the field ofillumination, namely the area illuminated. Preferably, the field ofillumination proximate electrode tip 222, 322, 422, 522 has a diameter238 of between approximately 2.5 and 6.5 cm, more preferablyapproximately 4.5 cm or less, at a distance 239 from lighting element230, 330, 430, 530, distance 239 being preferably between approximately1 and 7 cm, more preferably between approximately 2 and 5 cm, mostpreferably approximately 3 cm. In accordance with an embodiment of theinvention, lens 234 may be adjusted, for example, turned or shifted, tofocus the light or adjust diameter 238 of the field of illumination.

Moreover, blade unit 200, 300, 400, 500 is preferably constructed andarranged such that electrode tip 222, 322, 422, 522 is betweenapproximately 5 cm from lighting element 230, 330, 430, 530, permittingthe light source to be brought past the skin at incision 20 and into thepocket as illustrated in FIG. 9 . As described above, many surgeriescall for small incisions to minimize scarring, reduce patient’sdiscomfort, because of the complex surgical sites, etc. In theembodiment illustrated, incision 20 is not much larger than thecross-section of device 10. Thus, device 10 can be inserted throughincision 20 and avoids light from lighting element 230 being reflectedon the outer skin of the patient around incision 20 and the associateglare therefrom, which are some drawbacks of headlamps and otherexternal light sources. Additionally, a greater amount of light reachesthe surgical site, since the entire light source is within the pocket,which facilitates the focal vision of the operator, and facilitatesrecording by a camera within the pocket.

Preferably, the distance between the blade tip and the light source forblades longer than the examples illustrated are also approximately 5 cm,thus not sacrificing the concentration of light just because of thelength of the blade. Additionally, whereas light source 232 isillustrated as being fixed, it may be adjustable within lighting element230, for example, moved to vary the intensity of the light, withoutdeviating from the scope of the invention. Likewise, lighting element230, 330, 430, 530 may be adjustable, for example, rotatable, slidable,removable, etc. with respect to blade unit 200, 300, 400, 500 withoutdeviating from the scope of the invention.

Lighting element 230, 330, 430, 530 provides a sufficiently brightillumination to provide the surgeon with sufficient light to see thetissue being operated on, preferably between 3,000 to 6,000 millicandela(MCD). Moreover, it is preferred for lighting element 230, 330, 430, 530or other part of blade unit 200, 300, 400, 500 to include a heatdiffuser to avoid burning the tissue of the patient. Blade unit 200,300, 400, 500 may also include a smoke and/or blood removal mechanism aswell, as illustrated in FIGS. 21A - 21C.

Whereas the example of light source 232 is an LED, it is to beunderstood that various sources of light may be used, depending on thedesired size, color, temperature, amount of heat it emits, current, etc.

In the embodiment shown, coupling element 210, 310, 410, 510 isconstructed and arranged such that when blade unit 200, 300, 400, 500 isconnected to handle 100, handle 100 is coaxial along axis 202, 302, 402,502 with lighting element 230, 330, 430, 530. Furthermore, lightingelement 230, 330, 430, 530 emits light having a central axis coincidingwith axis 202, 302, 402, 502, and electrode tip 222, 322, 422, 522 ispositioned along axis 202, 302, 402, 502. Hence, wherever handle 100 ispointed, the light emitted from lighting element 230, 330, 430, 530 andelectrode tip 222, 322, 422, 522 will be moved there as well.

Preferably, the surgical electrode 220, 320, 420, 520 is shaped andarranged such that only electrode tip 222, 322, 422, 522 lies along axis202, 302, 402, 502, thus minimizing, if not eliminating, shadows cast bysurgical electrode 220, 320, 420, 520. In the embodiment shown, surgicalelectrode 220, 320, 420, 520 is elongated, extending away from thedistal end of handle 100, alongside and past lighting element 230, 330,430, 530, after which electrode tip 222, 322, 422, 522 juts toward axis202, 302, 402, 502. Therefore, when the surgeon or other user directshandle 100 to point the light toward the desired area, electrode tip222, 322, 422, 522 is also moved to the desired area to perform theprocedure. Furthermore, such an arrangement of blade unit 200, 300, 400,500 may permit procedures to be conducted deeper in a patient’s body,since light can reach deeper within the body compared to when usingheadlamps and overhead light.

More preferably, a shaft 240, 340, 440, 540 extends between lightingelement 230, 330, 430, 530 and coupling element 210, 310, 410, 510,wherein lighting element 230, 330, 430, 530 and shaft 240, 340, 440, 540are coaxial along axis 202, 302, 402, 502.

Handle

The illustrated embodiment of handle 100 comprises an elongated body111, a proximal end 112 having wires or other connection means toconnect to an electrode power source 130, and a distal end 114 having ahandle coupling element 116 for connecting to coupling element 210, 310,410, 510 of blade unit 200, 300, 400, 500. In the embodimentsillustrated, handle coupling element 116 comprises a receiving cavityfor receiving coupling element 210 of blade unit 200 and electricallyconnecting thereto, thus transmitting electricity to blade unit 200.

Different electrical currents may be supplied to selectively providedifferent types of energy for different surgical applications. In theembodiments shown in FIGS. 1-9 and 13-15 , once blade unit 200, 400 isconnected to handle 100, power may be provided via handle 100 to bladeunit 200, 400, for example, via handle coupling element 116. Power maybe provided to lighting element 230, 430 from the same power source aselectrode 220, 420, namely electrode power source 130. Alternatively,FIGS. 1 and 12 show separate power sources may be provided, electrodepower source 130 for electrode 220, 420, and a light power source 132for lighting element 230, 430.

Alternatively, FIGS. 10-11 and 16A-B show embodiments of blade unit 300,500 wherein lighting element 230, 430 has an independent light powersource 350. The power source 350 may be a building’s power sourceaccessible via an outlet, an independent power source, such as agenerator, or a smaller, portable power source, such as a battery. Bladeunit 300 may include a securing element 352 to secure light power source350 or a wire or other electrical connection to light power source 350to handle 100. Alternatively, a portable power source, such as abattery, may be provided within handle 100 to provide power to lightingelement without deviating from the scope of the invention.

Certain embodiments of the invention provide one or more relativelysmall batteries located within blade unit 200, 800, 820, as shown inFIGS. 3 and 21A-22C. FIG. 3 illustrates an embodiment wherein aplurality of batteries 235 is located within or adjacent to light source230, more specifically, behind light source 232. Therefore, thebatteries are located toward the distal end of blade unit 200. FIGS.21A-22C illustrate embodiments wherein a power source 810, 830 islocated toward the proximate end of blade unit 800, 820, morespecifically proximate or adjacent to coupling element 802, 822 of bladeunit 800, 820. Therefore, when blade unit 800, 820 is coupled to thehandle, power source 810, 830 is preferably proximate the middle of thelength of the handle-and-unit assembly. More preferably, the weight ofthe batteries is centered or distributed along the length of theassembly. This may improve balance of the assembly, improve handling ofthe assembly, and render blade unit 800, 820 less bulky than if abattery were provided toward the distal end of blade unit 800, 820. Ablade unit having a portable power source therewithin may improve easeof use, as well as ease of switching blade units in between proceduresrequiring different surgical electrodes.

Handle 100 may also include a switch element 120 for activating surgicalelectrode 220, 320, 420, 520. Switch element 120 shown in FIGS. 1 and 12controls the type of electrical current supplied to electrode tip 222,322, 422, 522. Switch element 120 preferably comprises buttons 122 and124, which control the current running through handle 10 and supplied toelectrode tip 222, 322, 422, 522, to effect electrocoagulation and/orelectrocauterization. One current selection may allow electrode tip 222,322, 422, 522 to cut; while another current selection may allowelectrode tip 222, 322, 422, 522 to perform coagulation. By selectingbetween buttons 122 and 124, the surgeon may change the tool functionfrom cutting to coagulation easily. A switch for activating lightingelement 230, 330, 430, 530 may be provided external to device 10, forexample, proximate or on power source 130, 132, 350, along theelectrical wire connecting lighting element 230, 330, 430, 530 to powersource 130, 132, 350, proximate or on securing element 352 or onlighting element itself.

Camera

Various technologies may also be included in unit 100 not shown in thefigures. For example, in certain embodiments of the invention, a cameraor other audio-visual technology may be included. The camera may beactivated to capture and/or transmit still images or videos to be playedon a larger screen live in the operating room or remotely from adifferent location. This allows not only other doctors to have a betterview of what is going on under the skin at the exact surgical site, butmay also be used as a training tool for students to follow along andlearn by seeing live procedures without crowding the patient or thesurgeon. The surgeon need not stop and back away to let others look intothe surgical site through the small incision, since they may simplywatch the screen, thus also eliminating such delays. Even if the surgeonbacks up and lets others look through the incision, it is difficult todo so while the surgeon is performing a procedure, at least partlybecause of the size and position of the incision, and angle of thesurgical site, the surgical instrument inserted therein, etc. Stillimages or videos may be saved and used post-surgery to document theprocedure, use as a teaching aid, performance reviews, for researchpurposes, etc.

Reference is made to FIGS. 12-16B. Blade unit 100 includes a cameraelement 460, 560 having a camera positioned proximate lighting element430, 530, wherein lighting element 230, 330, 430, 530 extends farthertoward electrode tip 422, 522. It is preferred for camera element 460,560 to be proximate electrode tip 422, 522 to minimize obstruction ofview caused by blade unit 400, 500, but equidistant or farther fromelectrode tip 422, 522 than lighting element 430, 500 to eliminateshadowing caused by camera element 460, 560.

Preferably, camera element 460, 560 is substantially small in size as tonot obstruct the surgeon’s view of the surgical site or hinder theinsertion and movement of the blade unit 100 into or within the surgicalsite. More preferably, camera element 460, 560 has a diameter of lessthan 1 cm, most preferably less than 0.5 cm. Camera element 460, 560 mayinclude a transmitter 462 to transmit the images or videos beingcaptured by camera element 460, 560 to a remote device, such as amonitor. Transmitter 462 eliminates the need for blade unit 400, 500and/or device 10 to be wired to the monitor, which may render device 10easier to control and maneuver. Preferably, transmitter 462 can connectto a WiFi network or other wireless network via which the images orvideos may be shared.

Camera element 460, 560 may be powered via handle 100 by an independentcamera power source 134, electrode power source 130 or light powersource 132. Alternatively, camera element 460, 560 may include a batterytherewithin. Other embodiments include, without limitation, cameraelement 460, 560 powered by light power source 350, or an independentcamera power source connected externally to handle 100, proximate asecuring element, etc.

Another potential use of an embodiment of blade unit 400, 500 having acamera element is the surgeon being able to conduct the procedure bywatching the monitor to see the position of the electrode within thesurgical site. Laparoscopic surgery, referred to as minimally invasivesurgery, utilizes a laparoscope, a long fiber optic cable system thatallows viewing of the affected area by snaking the cable from a moredistant, but more easily accessible location. However, laparoscopicsurgeries are currently only performed for operations within theabdominal, knee, shoulder, pelvic, thoracic or chest cavity, wherein thecavity is inflated with carbon dioxide to create a working and viewingspace. Surgeries like vaginal, plastic surgery, brain, urological andthroat procedures are not suitable for laparoscopic surgery. However, byutilizing blade unit 400, 500 having a camera proximate electrode tip422, 522 and lighting element 430, 530, the surgeon may be able toconduct the procedure while watching the monitor, especially for deepersites and/or smaller incisions.

Whereas lighting element 230, 330, 430, 530 is illustrated as beingbuilt into blade unit 200, 300, 400, 500, it is to be understood thatlighting element 230, 330, 430, 530 may be a removable unit that can beattached to an electrode or other part of blade unit 200, 300, 400, 500.For example, lighting element 230, 330, 430, 530 may be attached via, byway of non-limiting example, adhesive, elastic ring, Velcro®, magneticmechanism or interlocking mechanism. Thus, an existing electrode orother suitable device may be retrofitted in accordance with anembodiment of the invention. Thus, lighting element 230, 330, 430, 530may be removable or it may become permanently attached to blade unit200, 300, 400, 500 or other suitable device, as a matter ofapplication-specific design choice. Likewise, camera element 460, 560may also be a separate component that can be attached, eitherpermanently or removably, to the electrode, blade unit 200, 300, 400,500 or other suitable device.

Forceps

Reference is made to FIGS. 19A-B in which certain embodiments of forceps600, 650 include a lighting element 610, 660 positioned proximate tip621, 671 of first leg 620, 670 preferably less than 5 cm from tip 621,671. FIG. 19B illustrates an embodiment wherein a camera element 680 isprovided on second leg 672, proximate tip 671, preferably less than 5 cmfrom tip 671. Therefore, light may be provided proximate the site of aprocedure wherein an electrocautery device 10 is not being used byutilizing forceps 600, 650. Alternatively, one may provide additionallight or camera in addition to that provided by device 200, 300, 400,500. Preferably, lighting element 610, 660, camera element 680 or bothlighting element 610, 660, camera element 680 include a power source,such as one or more batteries, to power the light or camera without theuse of wires extending externally. Such an arrangement may make forceps600, 650 easier to use and less cumbersome. Preferably, the power sourceis light enough not to significantly weigh down forceps 600, 650. Morepreferably, lighting element 610, 660 and camera element 680 are similarin weight and are at a similar distance, preferably equidistant, fromtip 671, 672.

Illustrated in FIGS. 20A to 20D is an embodiment of a lighting element700 that may be used to retrofit forceps that do not have a lightingelement built in. Lighting element 700 includes a securing element 710and a light source 720. Securing element 710 secures lighting element700 to the forceps. In the embodiment shown, securing element 710comprises an elastic material and may stretch to fit the forceps or anyother item to which lighting element 700 is attached. More specifically,one of the legs of the forceps is slid through aperture 712 of securingelement 710, until securing element 710 has a stable grip on the leg ofthe forceps, so that lighting element 700 will not be dislodgedunintentionally. Whereas an elastic material is described herein, it isto be understood that any securing element, by way of non-limitingexample, adhesive, magnetic or interlocking mechanisms, or Velcro® maybe used without deviating from the scope of the invention.

Furthermore, whereas embodiments of lighting element 610, 660, 700 areshown as being positioned on a leg of the forceps, it may be positionedbetween the forceps legs, for example, along the central axis betweenthe forceps legs, as an alternate embodiment without deviating from thescope of the invention.

Alternate embodiments of the blade unit are shown in FIGS. 21A-22C. Asshown, blade unit 800, 820 include a coupling element 802, 822, anelectrode 804, 824, and a lighting element 806, 826 surroundingelectrode 804, 824. Lighting element may comprise a plurality of LEDs atleast partially surrounding electrode 804, 824 such that the collectivelight emitted therefrom is coaxial with the tip of electrode 804, 824.The embodiment shown in FIGS. 21A - 21C further includes a suctionelement 808 for removing smoke or fluids, such as blood, from thesurgical site. The device may therefore eliminate the need for aseparate suction device during a procedure. A separate suction devicemay be used for removing smoke formed by tissue being burned at thesurgical site, or for removing blood and/or other fluids. Because thereis typically only one incision 20, the suction device may crowd thesurgical sight as well as the incision 20 through which the surgeonviews the surgical site. Therefore, eliminating the need of a separatesuction device may facilitate the procedure being performed.Furthermore, because the suction device is integrated with the bladeunit, the smoke and/or fluids are removed from proximate the electrode,which is typically the region from which the surgeon wants to remove thesmoke and/or fluids, to see the tissue on which he is performing theprocedure. If the surgeon holds the suction device, it occupies one ofhis hands. If another person holds the suction device, the surgeon musttell them when and where to move the suction device, or the person mustguess and move the suction device without aim, being careful not to hitthe electrode or damaging the tender tissue. Therefore, providing aunitary device that permits the surgeon to illuminate the surgical site,control where the light points, and remove smoke and/or fluids from thesurgical site simultaneously while controlling the electrode to performa procedure may facilitate the procedure and reduce the likelihood oferror and surgeon’s fatigue.

Lighting element 806, 826 is preferably close to the distal tip ofelectrode 804, 824, more preferably less than 5 cm therefrom.Additionally, the LEDs surround electrode 804, 824, thus minimizing anyshadow cast on the tissue by electrode 804, 824. Whereas three LEDs areillustrated in FIGS. 21A-22C, it is to be understood that the number ofLEDs may vary without deviating from the scope of the invention. Acamera element may also be included, for example, in place of suctionelement 808 or next to suction element 808.

The examples provided are merely exemplary, as a matter of applicationspecific to design choice, and should not be construed to limit thescope of the invention in any way. Thus, while there have been shown anddescribed and pointed out novel features of the present invention asapplied to preferred embodiments thereof, it will be understood thatvarious omissions and substitutions and changes in the form and detailsof the disclosed invention may be made by those skilled in the artwithout departing from the spirit of the invention. For example, cameraelement 460, 560, 680 may further include an LED or other light sourcebuilt in without deviating from the scope of the invention as a matterof application specific to design choice.

The apparatus and system may include one or more batteries for poweringthe entire apparatus or system or separately to each individualcomponent. Additionally, other alterations can be made, as a way ofnon-limiting example, the shape and size of the surgical electrode, thelength of the handle, the length and size of the removable tool, thelength and size of the lighting element, can be varied, withoutdeviating from the scope of the invention.

It is the intention, therefore, to be limited only as indicated by thescope of the claims appended hereto.

It is also to be understood that the following claims are intended tocover all of the generic and specific features of the invention hereindescribed and all statements of the scope of the invention, which, as amatter of language, might be said to fall therebetween.

1. An electrode receiving unit for receiving an electrode blade andconnecting to a handle of an electrocautery device, the electrodereceiving unit comprising: a body having a proximal end and a distalend, and a body axis extending between said proximal end and said distalend; and a light element disposed at said distal end, constructed andarranged to emit light having a light central axis coaxial with saidbody axis; wherein said proximal end comprises a first connectingelement for non-permanently connecting said body to a handle of anelectrocautery device, and said distal end comprises an arm having asecond connecting element for non-permanently connecting said body to anelectrode, said arm extending from said distal end from outside the bodyaxis toward said body axis.
 2. The electrode receiving unit of claim 1,wherein said first connecting element further comprising a maleconnector constructed to be inserted into a female receiving portion ofsaid handle.
 3. The electrode receiving unit of claim 1, furthercomprising a light power source for powering said light element, saidlight power source being independent from a power source for poweringsaid electrode.
 4. The electrode receiving unit of claim 1, furthercomprising a camera at said distal end.
 5. An electrocautery extensionunit suitable for coupling to an electrocautery handpiece and anelectrocautery blade comprising: a body having a first end, a secondend, an axis extending between and beyond the first end and the secondend, and a third end constructed and configured to not align along saidaxis; a first connecting element disposed at the first end, constructedand configured to couple to an electrocautery handpiece; a light elementdisposed at the second end, constructed and configured to emit lighthaving a center beam along the axis; and a second connecting elementdisposed at the third end constructed and configured to couple to anelectrocautery blade.
 6. The electrocautery extension unit of claim 5,wherein said first connecting element further comprising a maleconnector constructed to be inserted into a female receiving portion ofsaid electrocautery handpiece.
 7. The electrocautery extension unit ofclaim 5, further comprising a light power source for powering said lightelement.
 8. The electrocautery extension unit of claim 5, furthercomprising a camera at said second end.
 9. The electrocautery extensionunit of claim 5, wherein the third end is constructed and positionedfurther away from the first end than the second end.
 10. Theelectrocautery extension unit of claim 5, wherein the distance betweenthe first end and the third end is greater than the distance between thefirst end and the second end.
 11. The electrocautery extension unit ofclaim 5 further comprising a conductive element to allow theelectrocautery blade to receive a signal from the electrocauteryhandpiece.
 12. An electrocautery extension unit comprising: an elongatedbody having a proximal end and a distal end; a first longitudinal plane;a first connecting element disposed at said proximal end, constructedand configured to couple to an electrocautery handpiece; a secondconnecting element disposed at said distal end constructed andconfigured to couple to an electrocautery blade; a light elementdisposed proximate the distal end, constructed and configured to emitlight; wherein the first connecting element, second connecting elementand the light element are configured and positioned on the firstlongitudinal plane.
 13. The electrocautery extension unit of claim 12further comprising a second longitudinal plane perpendicular to thefirst longitudinal plane.
 14. The electrocautery extension unit of claim13, wherein the second connecting element is positioned above the secondlongitudinal plane and the light element is positioned below the secondlongitudinal plane.
 15. The electrocautery extension unit of claim 14,where in the second connecting element is configured to receive theelectrocautery blade so that the tip of the electrocautery bladeterminates below the second longitudinal plane.
 16. The electrocauteryextension unit of claim 14, wherein the second connecting element isconfigured to receive the electrocautery blade so that the tip of theblade terminates on the second longitudinal plane.
 17. Theelectrocautery extension unit of claim 12, further comprising a camera.18. The electrocautery extension unit of claim 12, further comprising apower source for powering the light element.
 19. The electrocauteryextension unit of claim 12, further comprising a third connectingelement to connect to a power source to power the light element.
 20. Theelectrocautery extension unit of claim 12, further comprising aconductive element to allow the electrocautery blade to receive a signalfrom the electrocautery handpiece.